Why do Americans and foreigners alike describe the USA as prudish? Why do I see nothing prudish about the USA society? USA feels like one of the loosest countries although Americans claim to be very reserved.
12.06.2025 00:46
disrespect of authority figures. Crooked judges are OK if they are also clearly portrayed as evil people
any profanity to the Christian religion, e.g. hell, damn, God (unless used in a holy sense), or ridicule of the clergy.
Meanwhile, the rest of the world still sniggers at American prudishness.
Some ridiculous highlights of the code in effect banned or discouraged:
sexual perversion, including homosexuality (naturally), and sexual relationships between the white and black races.
nudity, or even suggestions of it (e.g. a silhouette)
Why would a spouse cheat if the marriage is good?
For 34 years, movie and TV studios censored themselves to appease the Puritanical whims of Will Hays.
The ridiculous 2004 Superbowl ‘Nipplegate’ was a more recent reminder of how US attitudes have not really advanced much since the Hays code.
toilets being shown
‘King of the Hill’ voice actor Jonathan Joss is fatally shot in Texas - The Washington Post
the display of bellybuttons
Remember the Hays Code?
couples in the same bed, even if married. (Laurel and Hardy came before the code)
Saquon Barkley unveiled as ‘Madden NFL 26’ cover star with famous backwards hurdle - New York Post
lustful kissing is to be shown with care